ANÁLISE DE INFORMAÇÕES NUTRICIONAIS E AVALIAÇÃO DA COMPOSIÇÃO BROMATOLÓGICA DE RAÇÕES PARA GATOS

The feeding and marketing of products for companion animals has been on the rise in recent years, with feeding practices strongly influenced by the preferences and attitudes of their owners. A healthy life is known to be directly related to nutrition; therefore, it is essential to know whether the food consumed is of good quality, meets the standards established by MAPA (National Health Ministry), meets nutritional needs, and matches the information described on the packaging. Based on the above, this study aimed to evaluate the nutritional information on labels and assess the chemical quality of pet cat food sold in the central region of the city of Nova Iguaçu, RJ. To carry out the project, a field survey was conducted at the main pet cat food stores in the central region of the city of Nova Iguaçu, RJ. The research consisted of a survey of all cat food brands and their prices found in stores. During the survey, the feeds were grouped by animal husbandry phase, such as Puppies, Adults, and Castrated Calves; and by categories, such as Standard, Premium, Super Premium, and Special Feeds. After the survey, the feeds were taken to the UNIG food laboratory and identified by letters to protect the manufacturer’s name, where the label information was analyzed. To evaluate the nutritional information, calculations were performed to determine the percentage of nutrients per kilogram of feed, based on the information provided on the feed label, as well as the price ratio of nutrients per kilogram. In the bromatological analysis, the variables were: Fiber, minerals, crude protein, ether extract and moisture.. The statistical analysis of the data was based on a descriptive analysis, calculating the frequency of each nonconformity using simple arithmetic means. The Standard and Special category feeds complied with the limits established by MAPA. The Premium and Super Premium feeds, except for the mineral content in the Premium feed which was above the permitted level, also met the current legislation, but showed inconsistencies between the values declared on the label and the results of the analysis. Therefore, compliance with MAPA does not guarantee complete reliability, reinforcing the need for ongoing monitoring and transparent labeling. The study revealed that, despite legal compliance with MAPA, there are discrepancies between labels and laboratory analyses of cat foods. The need for ongoing monitoring and transparent labeling is emphasized to ensure nutritional safety and feline health.